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Security Status

Normal precautions

High degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Do not travel

Sat, 16 Jul 2016 13:51:08 BST

Get travel and medical insurance

Before travelling, the Department strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs. You should check any exclusions and, in particular, that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

Security Status

Overview

Overview

Overview

Security Status

Exercise a high degree of caution

Latest Travel Alert

The new Istanbul Airport is due to open on Monday, 29 October 2018. There will be a gradual transfer of flights from Istanbul's existing Ataturk airport to the new one, with the transition period expected to continue until December 2018. Please be aware that delays or cancellations may occur throughout this time, please contact your airline or tour operator for the latest information on your flight.

From Monday, 29 October 2018, it will no longer be possible to obtain a visa at Turkish Airports upon arrival. For a tourist or transit visa, you must apply for an e-visa prior to departure: www.evisa.gov.tr/en. A transit visa is required only if the scheduled transit period is longer than 24 hours.

The political environment in Turkey remains potentially volatile and we strongly advise Irish citizens to avoid rallies, demonstrations and public gatherings. Presidential and parliamentary elections took place in Turkey in June 2018 and the State of Emergency, put in place following a failed coup attempt in July 2016, ended in July 2018.

If you become aware of a demonstration, please change your travel plans and leave the area. Please also be aware that the police in Turkey can take measures such as the use of tear gas to control protesters. Ensure you have a charged mobile phone at all times. Please carry ID / passport / visa at all times, presenting to security officers if requested (and keep a copy to hand also).

Six month passport validity is required from the date of entry to Turkey. Please check your passport in plenty of time before travel and if it needs to be renewed please use our Online Passport Renewal System. Please see Additional Information for visa and tourist residence permit requirements.

Syria

On 20 January 2018 the Turkish military launched military operations in collaboration with Turkish-backed Syrian rebels against Kurdish armed groups in the northern Syrian province of Afrin. Afrin borders the Turkish provinces of Hatay, Kilis, and Gaziantep. There have been reports of retaliatory fire from Afrin into Turkish border areas resulting in deaths and injuries.

The offensive has increased political tensions within Turkey and the Turkish government has warned against what it terms "terrorist propaganda", which can be interpreted broadly. As many as 91 people have been reported detained, many for comments against the operations made on social media.

We reiterate our warning against all travel to within at least 10 kilometres of the Syrian border and against all but essential travel to remaining areas of Hatay, Kilis, and Gaziantep provinces in this context. Our full warning, which also covers neighbouring provinces, is below.

General Travel Advice

The threat of terrorism in Turkey remains high. There were numerous large-scale terrorist attacks in Turkish cities, including in Istanbul in 2016 and an ongoing threat in resort areas in the south and west of the country. Several attacks have targeted locations frequented by foreigners.

Turkey, including Istanbul and coastal regions popular with Irish tourists, lies in a seismically-active area and there have been a number of significant earthquakes in the west of Turkey in recent months. This includes a magnitude 6.7 earthquake near the coastal towns of Marmaris and Bodrum on 21 July 2017. Further earthquakes are likely and many buildings in the country are not earthquake proof.

Our general advice to Irish citizens in Turkey or those who intend to travel to Turkey is to exercise a high degree of caution at all times. You should avoid all protests and demonstrations and minimise time spent in crowded areas, particularly those frequented by foreigners, follow local security advice, and monitor local media. You should also devise and/or review a personal security plan.

We recommend that you check this travel advice regularly and download the Department's TravelWise Smartphone App and activate alerts for Turkey. You can also follow the Irish Embassy in Ankara on Twitter (@IrlEmbAnkara) and on Facebook (Irish Embassy Turkey). We strongly recommend that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance which covers all intended activities.

In the event of a terrorist attack, you should let your family and friends at home know you are safe as soon as possible, even if the attack is not close to where you are located. You should also keep your family and friends informed of your travel plans as much as possible. If you need assistance, call 00353 (0)1 408 2000 or 0090 (0)312 459 1000.

Terrorism

The threat from terrorism in Turkey is high, including in Istanbul and Ankara. The Mediterranean and Aegean resort areas in the south and west of the country may also be targeted, though this has not generally been the case to date. The terrorist threat in Turkey is multi-faceted and unpredictable, with several terrorist groups currently targeting the country. These include the so-called Islamic State (IS), the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), and its offshoots.

Although the Turkish military's Operation Euphrates Shield in northern Syria officially ended in late March, the military has since carried out further operations in both northern Syria and northern Iraq. On 20 January 2018 a major Turkish military operation was launched in Syria's northern Afrin province. Government operations also continue in the south-east of the country following the breakdown in mid-2015 of a ceasefire between the Turkish Government and the PKK.

We strongly advise against all travel within 10 kilometres of the border between Turkey and Syria and to Diyarbakir city. We advise against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of the provinces of Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Şanliurfa, and Sirnak. In addition, we recommend against all but essential travel to all areas of Siirt, Tunceli and Hakkari provinces.

Terrorist attacks are, by their nature, random and indiscriminate and cannot be predicted in advance. You should remain vigilant at all times, particularly in public places that are frequented by foreigners, avoid large public gatherings and all demonstrations, and follow the advice of the local authorities. You should also monitor travel advice and local media regularly, and review personal security plans.

Particular vigilance is required in tourist areas such as Taksim Square in Istanbul, in airports and on public transport (including the metro systems in Istanbul and Ankara), and at locations close to police and military installations, which may be targets for terrorist attacks.

Below are major terrorist attacks since November 2016:

On 5 January 2017 there was an explosion, believed to be caused by a car bomb, outside the main courthouse in the western Turkish city of Izmir.

In the early hours of 1 January 2017, there was a major shooting attack in the Reina nightclub in the central Ortaköy district of Istanbul, which resulted in a large number of casualties. IS claimed responsibility for the attack.

On 17 December 2016, a car bomb exploded in the city of Kayseri, some 320 kilometres to the south-east of Ankara, killing 13 soldiers and injuring over 50 soldiers and civilians. Kurdish militants are widely believed to be responsible. Demonstrations, including directed at offices of the People's Democratic Party (HDP), subsequently broke out in several cities, some of which turned violent.

On 10 December 2016, a car bomb and suicide bomber detonated in close succession in two locations outside the Vodafone football stadium in the central Beşiktaş district of Istanbul. 44 people were killed, 36 police and 8 civilians, with over 150 more injured. The Kurdistan Freedom Falcons (TAK) claimed responsibility for the attack.

On 24 November 2016, an explosion outside the governor's office in the southern Turkish city of Adana killed two people and injured over 20.

Post-Coup Attempt Environment

There are police checks in busy areas, particularly in Istanbul, and on main roads across the country. Irish citizens should cooperate with officials carrying out these checks and keep, at minimum, a copy of your passport and e-visa/residence permit with you at all times.

Rallies and demonstrations may occur at short notice. Irish citizens should remain vigilant, particularly where crowds may gather, stay well away from any demonstrations, and stay informed of local developments and security advice.

There have been several cases of nationals or dual-nationals of EU Member States being detained, for example, because they worked, or intended to work, in an organisation suspected of links to the Gülen movement. Foreign employees of international NGOs operating in the country have also been detained and several have been deported. Irish citizens intending to work in Turkey should exercise particular caution in this context. All intending travellers should follow instructions given by police or security personnel.

Emergency assistance

The best help is often close at hand so if you have problems, try talking to your local contacts, tour operator representative or hotel management.

Safety and Security

Safety and Security

Safety and security

Terrorism

The threat from terrorism in Turkey remains high, with bomb attacks in major Turkish cities, including Istanbul and Ankara. Although some attacks have targeted security forces, there have also been random attacks in tourist areas The situation in the south-east of the country is particularly serious and these areas should be avoided (see below).

Terrorist attacks are, by their nature, random and indiscriminate and cannot be predicted in advance. You are advised to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in public places that are frequented by foreigners.

Political unrest

The political situation in Turkey is reasonably stable but always keep yourself informed of what's going on around you by monitoring local media and staying in contact with your hotel or tour organiser.

We strongly advise against all travel within 10 kilometres of the border between Turkey and Syria and to Diyarbakir city. We advise against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of provinces of Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Şanliurfa, and Sirnak . In addition, we recommend against all but essential travel to the Siirt, Tunceli and Hakkari provinces.

While areas popular with Irish travellers are located at a substantial distance from these regions, vigilance is also required in tourist areas such as at Taksim Square in Istanbul and locations close to police stations, which may be targets for terrorist attacks. We also urge caution if using public transport, in particular the metro systems in Istanbul and Ankara.

Avoid demonstrations and public gatherings, which can turn confrontational. The police will take measures such as the use of tear gas to control protesters. Stay away from military sites – taking photos of, or near, military or security installations and some public buildings, may be prohibited.

Crime

Violent crime against tourists in Turkey is rare but street robbery and pickpocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. The Embassy in Ankara has also been made aware of a number of cases of tourists being intimidated into paying extortionate bills at bars and nightclubs in Istanbul. Remain vigilant when frequenting such establishments. There have been a number of cases of theft from apartments and cars in some of the coastal resorts, as well as in Istanbul and Ankara. Take heed of your local tour operator representative's advice, and wherever you are, take sensible precautions.

Don't carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place

Don't carry your passport unless absolutely necessary, but carry a copy of it in case you are stopped by police. Also leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home. Ensure that at least one family member in Ireland is aware of your location and travel plans in Turkey, should an emergency arise communications by email or mobile phone can be difficult.

Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don't use ATMs after dark, especially if you are alone. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business.

Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafes, train and bus stations

Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.

Do not leave valuables, or bags which may appear to contain valuables, visible in parked cars.

Reporting a crime

If you are a victim of a crime while in Turkey, report it to the local police immediately. And you can contact us the Irish Embassy or our Honorary Consuls if you need help.

Driving

If you're planning to drive in Turkey, you should be extremely careful. Serious traffic accidents are common, particularly at night. Road safety standards are low, particularly outside towns and cities. Accidents are frequent and are often caused by poor driving, badly maintained vehicles and inadequate lighting. Pedestrians should also exercise caution at all times, including at zebra crossings, for example, as drivers rarely stop to allow pedestrians to cross.

If you want to drive:

Bring your full Irish driving licence and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught.

Be aware of Turkey's traffic laws, such as speed limits.

Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you are stopped at traffic lights.

Hiring a vehicle

If you are hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you are allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Taxis

In Istanbul, avoid hailing taxis on the street and only use taxis ordered by your hotel or those ordered directly from a taxi kiosk.

Extreme sports

If you participate in extreme sports (including hot-air ballooning), satisfy yourself that adequate safety precautions are in place. There have been a number of hot-air ballooning accidents in Cappadocia in recent months, which have led to a number of fatalities. There have also been a number of fatalities and serious injuries in paragliding accidents in the resorts of Oludeniz and Fethiye. Only use reputable operators and insist on training before use. Make sure your travel insurance covers you for all the activities you want to undertake, as often they are excluded in standard policies

Stray dogs

Stray street dogs are common in most towns and cities in Turkey. Local authorities take action to control and manage numbers but packs congregate in parks and wastelands and can, at times, be aggressive. Avoid approaching these dogs but if bitten, seek immediate medical advice as rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Turkey.

Wed, 17 May 2017 15:59:02 BST

Local Laws and Customs

Local Laws and Customs

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or even illegal.

Muslim culture

Turkey is an Islamic country and you should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Normally, the dress code in Turkey is the same as in Europe, however, you should dress modestly if visiting a mosque or a religious shrine (long trousers or dress and women should wear a headscarf).

You should always ask permission before photographing people.

Illegal drugs

Turkey has strict laws against the use, possession or trafficking of illegal drugs. If you are convicted of any of these offences, you can expect to receive a heavy fine and a prison sentence of up to 15 years. The Embassy maintains a list of English-speaking lawyers, but cannot get involved in legal cases.

Thu, 05 May 2016 15:38:55 BST

Health

Health

Health

If you need urgent health treatment during your stay, you should dial 112 to contact the emergency health services.

Travel Insurance

We can’t pay for emergency medical repatriation, repatriation of remains, or for expenses as a result of a personal emergency while you are abroad. If you buy an appropriate travel insurance policy, these costs will be covered, provided you haven’t broken the terms and conditions.

Buying comprehensive travel insurance can save you and your family a lot of money if something goes wrong. It will also ensure that you get the medical attention you need, when you need it. Hospital bills can quickly run into thousands of euro, and a medical evacuation back to Ireland can cost thousands more.

Not all policies are the same, and the cheapest one might be cheap for a reason. Make sure your policy covers all the activities you plan to do on your trip. Insurance Ireland recommend that you purchase a policy that provides a minimum medical cover of €1 million.

Emergency expenses

Your policy should cover:

All medical care abroad, including evacuation by air ambulance, or other emergency procedures, and any other costs associated with an unexpected longer stay.

Your entire trip, from departure to return. Consider an annual multi-trip policy if you’re making more than one trip in the year.

Any extra activities you intend to do that are excluded from standard policies (e.g. water sport activities such as jet skiing or other extreme sports).

Exclusions: You should know most insurance policies will not cover drink or drug-related incidents.

Water

There have been water-quality issues in Turkey and visitors are advised to use bottled water whenever possible.

Thu, 05 May 2016 15:38:40 BST

Additional Information

Additional Information

Additional information

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

All Irish citizens require a visa to enter Turkey.

From Monday, 29 October 2018, it will no longer be possible to obtain a visa at Turkish Airports upon arrival. For a tourist or transit visa, you must apply for an e-visa prior to departure: www.evisa.gov.tr/en. A transit visa is required only if the scheduled transit period is longer than 24 hours.

All other travellers to Turkey should contact their nearest Turkish Embassy in advance of their visit to clarify their visa requirements. Contact details for the Turkish Embassy in Dublin are available at http://dublin.emb.mfa.gov.tr/ContactInfo.aspx

Six month passport validity is required from the date of entry to Turkey. Please check your passport in plenty of time before travel and if it needs to be renewed please use our Online Passport Renewal System.

Tourist residence permit

If you wish to stay longer in Turkey as a tourist, you must apply for a tourist residence permit from the Foreigners Police Department in your local area of residence in Turkey. The new tourist residence permit may be granted for a maximum stay of six months. The maximum length of time you can stay in Turkey as a tourist is nine consecutive months.

Residence permit

If you want to study, work or stay beyond 90 days in Turkey you must apply for the appropriate visa and/or residence permit from the Turkish authorities. Residence permits for Irish citizens are free of charge, though you have to pay for the residence permit booklet. Applications and requests for further information should be directed towards the Foreigners’ Branch of your local police station or to the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate. Residence permits are not free of charge for all foreign nationals, so you may find that you have to insist that this is the case when you apply for a permit.

Overstaying your visa

Overstaying your visa can result in heavy fines and/or a ban on re-entering Turkey for up to five years, depending on the length of the overstay, and you’ll need to apply for a visa from the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate before returning to Turkey. Departing Turkey without paying the relevant fine will lead to an automatic five year ban on re-entry.

Visa requirements for Irish citizens are a matter for the Turkish immigration authorities and the Irish Embassy cannot intervene in individual cases relating to visas and overstays.

Travelling with children

If you are leaving Turkey with a child who is a dual Irish-Turkish national, you may be asked to show the Turkish immigration authorities evidence that the Turkish parent has given permission for the child to travel.

Buying property

If you’re intending to buy property in Turkey, we strongly advise you to consult an independent legal advisor from the beginning of the process. Procedures in relation to property purchases differ significantly from those in Ireland and investors are advised to research the matter thoroughly before entering into any agreement.

Embassy contact

Embassy Contact

Please note that if you require assistance in the case of an emergency while the Embassy is closed, contact the main Embassy number, 00 90 312 4591000, and leave a message on the Duty Officer voice mailbox. This mailbox will be monitored regularly. Please have an English speaker leave the initial message.

Get travel and medical insurance

Before travelling, the Department strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs. You should check any exclusions and, in particular, that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.